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November 4, 2013

Chicly Chronicles : Sea Shells by the Sea Shore

While I was in NYC a couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of visiting with the wonderful Tiffany Chou. For those of you who are not familiar with Tiffany and her designs you should go check out her websiteASAP! She is an incredibly talented Maui girl making her way as a jewelry designer in Manhattan. It was so fun to chat with Tiffany, visit her in home studio, and play with some of her jewels! I grew up with Tiffany on Maui and am so impressed with the brand she is building and the way she mixes her love of the ocean into her designs.
When I saw Tiffany, I did notice she has become a true New Yorker, rocking head to toe black simply accessorized with beautiful gold jewels from her own line. Keep reading to hear and see more about Tiffany's style!

CC: When did you know you wanted to be a jewelry designer?

TC: To be honest I didn't know until right before I started my line! I had been making jewelry as a hobby ever since I was a kid, but did not know that little hobby would turn into a career. When I moved to New York everything kind of led me in that direction and I went with it.

CC: Is there a piece of jewelry you don't leave the house without?

TC: I am usually always wearing my 25" Here Sharky Sharky necklace. I love the length and that it is small and delicate. It's not too overpowering and can go with pretty much anything.CC: How would you describe your personal style?

TC: I would say my style is beach-cottage meets city-prep. I love a plain white T, stripes, sparkle, and colorful heels. All topped off with a TC accessory of course!

In high school I would dress up for no good reason other than to go to math class, and people would ask where I was going. The great thing about living in New York is that you can throw on heels just to pick up some cat food and no one will think twice.

CC: Is there something in your closet you wear on repeat?

TC: I recently purchased some leggings from Zara and I've been wearing those out almost every weekend. You can dress them down or up and I love the thick waistband because it holds everything together.

CC: Where are your favorite places to shop? Online or in store?

TC: Both. But I love shopping in New York because you get to see how everyone else is dressed and all the differences in personal style. My favorite places to shop right now are Zara, J. Crew and Lululemon. I really adore Lulu's line of not-so-active-wear wear.

CC: It is pretty amazing that you run and manage your own brand! What advice would you give to others trying to start their own business? Or what was the best advise you received over the years?

TC: Thank you! My advice would be to have goals, short and long term, and always keep them in your mind. Be kind, stay positive and work hard. "Don't let anyone tell you what you can or can't do." I've heard that from several great places, Lost and my sample maker.